Thwaite’s re-United for family reasons
FORMER Socceroos defender Michael Thwaite is returning to Gold Coast United, the club he captained in the A-League.
Thwaite, 35, who last season played for Western Sydney Wanderers, will again don the United jersey, this time in the 2019 NPL Queensland competition.
“I’ve had a couple of opportunities to go back into the A-League again but this is the best option for my family and I right now,” Thwaite said.
“For me it’s very humbling. When United finished (in the A-League) in 2012 my family and I were very heartbroken.
“We didn’t want to leave the Gold Coast.
“To be honest, the few years I had with United were probably the happiest years of my professional career.”
United’s new coach Kristian Rees, who also played for the club in the A-League, was delighted his former central defensive partner had returned.
“It’s fantastic news, very exciting for me being my first signing and really exciting for the club,” Rees said. “Michael’s someone who fits exactly the mould of what we’re trying achieve. We’re both all about youth development.”
Thwaite will not play but will assist Rees in coaching.
“Michael brings great experience, he’s played all over the country and across the world. He’s a great leader and I know what he can offer on the field,” Rees said.
“And just as telling is what he’ll bring off it. What he brings in a mentoring capacity is immeasurable.
“He’s the consummate professional, the way he prepares for matches both physically and mentally.”